Southeast hosts Special Olympics track and field meet

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - Athletes from fourteen counties came to Cape Girardeau today, to run, jump and throw their way to gold medals.

The Special Olympics track and field meet took place at the Southeast Missouri State Student Recreation Center.

More than 350 athletes and their fans took part in the event.

According to organizers, the event is important because it gives everyone an opportunity to compete.

"Over 15 years we've hosted this local competition, and finally last year with the passing of the tax, we built these facilities," said Penny Williams with the Area Management Team. "We finally have the facilities to host the state games."

And, it's a community effort to make these games possible.

"I can honestly tell you the support we receive from the city, we will continue to host competitions here in Cape Girardeau," said Williams.

Gold, silver and bronze medal winners at today's events will be invited to a state competition that will take place in Springfield later this year.